Heart & Vascular

Tilt Table

Definition:

Tilt Table testing is a simple test that helps pinpoint the cause of your syncope (passing out) or near syncope (dizzy spells, almost passing out). This test is done to see if you have a condition called “vasodepressor syncope”. This condition is caused by an imbalance of the nerves that normally control your heart rate and blood pressure.

What to Expect:

A nurse from Cardiac Diagnostics will contact you the day before your exam and give you instructions. You will check in through the North Admission Entrance 30 minutes before your test is scheduled to begin.

If you wear a loose top or one that buttons up the front you will not need to change into a gown. An IV (intravenous) line will be started for fluids and possible medication administration if needed during testing. This test is performed using a special table called a tilt table. You will be instructed to lie down on this table, and monitoring equipment will be applied: heart monitor, blood pressure cuff and an oxygen saturation measuring device.

Safety straps will also be applied across your chest and legs. You will stay flat for 10 minutes then the bed will be adjusted to a 60 degree angle (near standing position.) The length of time you stand is based on how you tolerate the test. If you feel like you may pass out, it is important to relay these symptoms to your nurse. Always remember that you are being monitored constantly and you are in a very safe environment. The maximum time you will be in the standing position is approximately 45 minutes. The physician may also choose to give you an adrenaline-like medication to increase your heart rate. This medication may cause you to feel your heart pound. Once the medication is stopped, you quickly return to feeling normal again. A cardiologist will review your test results and make recommendations either directly to you or through your primary care physician.

Preparation:

DO NOT EAT OR DRINK FOR 6 HOURS BEFORE THE TEST.

Scheduled medications may be taken with just enough water to get them down comfortably. Medications to avoid taking are diuretics (water pills). If our staff is able to reach you before your exam, we will review with you what medications should and should not be taken.

Bring a complete list of your medications along with any allergies you have to medications or latex products.

Allow a maximum of 2 hours for your time at the hospital.

You will be asked to keep your shoes on during this test so make sure they are comfortable to stand in for 45 minutes.

Every effort will be made by our staff to contact you prior to test day for explanation of the test and to obtain medical history. If we are unable to contact you and you have questions, please call us at 402-461-5124 to speak to a Cardiology Diagnostics RN. Our hours are 6:30am – 5:00pm Monday through Friday.

Post Test:

Discharge instructions will be reviewed.

Follow up appointments will be made if indicated.

You may return to your normal diet and activity.

Most people feel fine to drive themselves home, but you may want to have a backup plan for a driver in case you do not feel well after the test.

Thank you for choosing Mary Lanning Healthcare for your medical needs. We appreciate your loyalty and confidence in our services. If you have any questions, please contact your physician or a Cardiac Diagnostics RN at 402-461-5124.

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